In a groundbreaking aviation development, an Italian M-346 jet trainer successfully coordinated with a Baykar Kizilelma drone during a loyal wingman trial in Turkey. This test marks a significant step in advancing autonomous and semi-autonomous flight technologies.
Joint Efforts in Drone Technology
The collaborative effort took place at Baykar’s flight and test center in Çorlu, with Leonardo’s test jet flying alongside the Turkish drone. This trial is a result of a cooperation agreement signed last year between Italy’s Leonardo and Baykar, which included plans to construct Baykar drones equipped with Leonardo systems in Italy.
The test involved two Leonardo M-346 jets, including a Leonardo-owned M-346 Fighter Attack Variant. An Italian Air Force trainer served as the chase aircraft during the trial. This initiative tested a variety of missions to evaluate new algorithms, tactics, and procedures developed by Leonardo in Italy.
Advanced Integration and Autonomy
After an autonomous taxi and take-off, the Kizilelma drone autonomously linked to the M-346 via an advanced radio frequency data exchange system, which allowed for seamless data synchronization. Leonardo stated, “Kizilelma’s advanced autonomy capabilities greatly simplified the integration process, allowing for seamless implementation and rapid deployment.”
Leonardo and Baykar are paving the way for Crewed/UnCrewed Teaming (CUC-T) and swarm tactics capabilities. The development and refinement of AI technology, algorithms, and collaborative procedures aim to gradually shift uncrewed systems from remote piloting to autonomy, enhancing mission efficiency and reducing pilot workload while maintaining comprehensive control.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Looking ahead, new tests are planned with increasing complexity and additional functionalities. These developments are expected to have a significant impact on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), in which Leonardo is involved, focusing on enhancing Loyal Wingman drone deployments.
Baykar’s contributions include Smart Fleet Autonomy capabilities, integrated into the crewed/uncrewed teaming algorithms using the company’s proprietary software and hardware infrastructure.
Another notable European initiative aimed at integrating crewed fighters with uncrewed systems was the Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. However, the Next Generation Fighter component of FCAS was terminated in June 2026 due to unresolved industrial disagreements between Germany and France, although other elements such as a Combat Cloud are expected to continue.
Devrim Yaylali in Istanbul contributed to this report.
Tom Kington is the Italy correspondent for Defense News.
